Interview with Division 3 Cross Country Champion,
Desi Broadley
By: Arlo Shilling
Desi Broadley is a junior at GMUHS and a champion cross-country runner! She is recognized not only statewide but nationally! Desi was interviewed about her experience as a standout cross-country runner, and this is what she had to say. Desi was just 6 years old when she ran her first 5K and has been active in the sport since. Desi says running is a great exercise and stress reliever when taken casually as well as competitively. Desi says she is quite competitive and enjoys that aspect of running as well: “I love seeing the work I've put into it come to fruition.”
Desi Broadley's best achievements have been her state titles last year in cross country and outdoor track, and this year in cross country as well. One of her standout achievements was winning the Junior Olympic Nationals in Georgia this past summer with a personal record! Just in case that wasn't impressive enough, Desi says the conditions of the race were in 102 degree weather, sunny, hot, and humid! She states, “Being able to come out with this time and the title in this sort of heat was what I was most proud of, because it wasn't easy.”
I asked how her journey as an improving athlete which Desi replied, “Overall, it has been something to be very proud of. There have been ups and downs, but I have been steadily improving and getting stronger each year.” Which, in my opinion, is the mindset of a great, determined athlete. As for the Cross Country community, Desi says she has met many new friends. “Meeting new people with similar goals to mine has helped me become a better runner, and I have learned important lessons from the people I have met.”
Cross country is not a sport for everyone, and it definitely challenges your perseverance and ability to bounce back after setbacks. Though challenging at times, Desi says, “I am definitely glad that I have chosen this sport, and glad with all the wonderful things that came with it.”
Congrats to Desi for her XC Championship win!!
